Category: People

Bhavin Mukund Mehta takes charge as vice-chairman of Pharmexcil

MUMBAI: The Indian pharmaceutical industry just got a major upgrade! The Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil) has named Bhavin Mukund Mehta, Kilitch Drugs (India) Limited wholetime director, as its new vice-chairman. With over 25 years of industry experience, Mehta’s leadership is set to supercharge India’s global pharmaceutical exports.

A deal-making, strategy-shaping, market-expanding powerhouse, Mehta has not only catapulted Kilitch Drugs onto the global stage but also reinforced its domestic stronghold. Now, at Pharmexcil, he’s gearing up to break new ground, fuel innovation, and champion MSMEs—because, let’s face it, even the biggest industry players were once small businesses with big dreams.

Mehta’s association with Pharmexcil isn’t new—he’s practically been its MVP for years. Back in 2012, he was appointed as the chairman of the Exhibition Committee by the Ministry of Commerce, where he didn’t just organise trade events—he launched IPHEX, India’s largest pharmaceutical export exhibition, proving that India’s pharma game isn’t just strong, it’s global.

From negotiating high-stakes trade deals to ensuring Indian pharma gets its well-deserved global spotlight, Mehta has been the industry’s go-to expert. His latest appointment as vice-chairman of Pharmexcil? Just the logical next step in his mission to put Indian pharma on every international shelf possible.

Expressing his gratitude, Mehta said, “I am truly honoured to be appointed as vice-chairman at Pharmexcil. While promoting the growth of pharmaceutical exports, I am also committed to promoting the growth of MSMEs within India’s pharmaceutical sector, which plays a vital role in enhancing global health. Together, we will work to unlock new opportunities, drive innovation, and strengthen India’s position as a leader in pharmaceutical exports worldwide.”

Mehta isn’t just about business—he’s got the credentials to back it up. He holds a post graduate diploma in management from S.P. Jain Institute of Management, Mumbai, and a bachelor of pharmaceutical sciences from the University of Mumbai. His unique blend of technical knowledge and business acumen has been instrumental in navigating regulatory landscapes, executing expansion strategies, and driving pharmaceutical innovations.

With his appointment, Pharmexcil is set for a dynamic shift, championing not just large-scale pharma players but also boosting MSMEs that form the backbone of India’s pharmaceutical ecosystem.

February 4, 2025
Golden Key Awards 2024: MRSI to celebrate market research pioneers

MUMBAI : The Market Research Society of India (MRSI) is all set to honour three trailblazers at the Golden Key Awards 2024, happening on 20 February in Mumbai. This year, Ashok Das, C. K. Sharma, and Lalit S. Kanodia will be celebrated for their exceptional contributions that have shaped and elevated India’s market research and insights industry. Their groundbreaking work continues to inspire and influence the sector, making this year’s awards truly special.

Das will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for his exceptional work over more than four decades, including his leadership at Hansa Research and his groundbreaking initiatives like the Indian Readership Survey and INTAM, India’s first television meter service. Marketing & Business Associates co-founder Sharma will also be honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his pioneering work in customer and employee engagement, as well as his contributions to global research frameworks.

Kanodia will be presented with a special award for his transformational impact on the market research sector. Known for digitising offline research and integrating data analytics, Kanodia’s leadership at Tata Consultancy Services and Datamatics has revolutionised global research operations.

MRSI president Nitin Kamat, expressed profound gratitude for the recipients’ visionary leadership and mentorship, which continues to influence the industry.

January 31, 2025
AET Displays: Redefining LED brilliance and leading India’s DOOH revolution

MUMBAI: Marketing isn’t just getting smarter; it’s getting flashier—and DOOH is proof that advertising is no longer a static affair. According to recent market reports, India’s DOOH (Digital Out-of-Home) market is currently valued at around USD 282.6 million in 2024, with expectations to reach USD 630 million by 2030 at a CAGR of 13.8 per cent.

Forget peeling billboards that fade into the background; today, LED-powered displays are turning streets into visual feasts. Bright lights, big impressions, and data-driven campaigns—what’s not to love? AET Displays, the wizards of outdoor advertising, are leading this transformation.

Curious why India’s DOOH market is shining brighter than ever, with a staggering 13.8 per cent CAGR? Want to know how AET Displays is capturing eyeballs (and wallets)? Keep reading for insights, strategies, and a touch of LED magic that’s redefining advertising.

Indian Television’s Suman Baidh and Sreeyom Sil recently sat down with AET Global’s international marketing head, Prashant Srivastava for a candid chat on India’s buzzing DOOH advertising market. From billion-dollar projections to the latest LED wizardry, Srivastava didn’t hold back. Want to know how AET Displays plans to light up the competition, one screen at a time? Let’s dive into the trends, the opportunities, and maybe even a few trade secrets (if we’re lucky!).

Edited Excerpts

The DOOH market in India seems to be on fire right now. What’s fuelling this growth?

India’s DOOH market is witnessing a transformative phase, growing at an estimated CAGR of 14 per cent and poised to reach $1 billion by 2027. Key trends include the integration of programmatic advertising, real-time analytics, and the rise of interactive displays. However, challenges such as infrastructure gaps and regulatory inconsistencies persist. The opportunities lie in expanding to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where the adoption of digital solutions is accelerating, and in catering to smart city initiatives that demand high-quality, weather-resistant displays.

Challenges and opportunities always go hand in hand. What’s your strategy for tackling them?

Our AET Spark Program is a transformative initiative designed to elevate the LED display industry by providing a seamless, end-to-end experience for our partners. This program goes beyond just supporting our clients; it also focuses on skill development by training employees to enhance their expertise in the LED display industry.

With a strong network of over 80 partners and distributors across 34 countries, the program helps extend AET’s global footprint while addressing local market needs. We also offer comprehensive product training to empower customers to fully utilise their LED displays and maximise their potential. The program ensures high-performance maintenance and minimal downtime while committing to sustainability with advanced packaging technologies like MIP and COB.

That’s a solid approach. So, what makes AET’s displays stand out in this competitive market?

AET is not just a seller of LED products, but a leader in LED technology. Our displays stand out due to their technological superiority, durability, and customisation options. We incorporate cutting-edge technologies such as Micro LED (COB & MIP Technology), Quantum Dot Chip on Board (QCOB), and Transparent LED with AM Technology.

Our products are built to withstand India’s diverse climates, from Rajasthan’s searing 49°C heat to the monsoon-heavy Mumbai. They’re dustproof, waterproof, UV-resistant, and consume 20 per cent less energy than industry standards. This aligns with global sustainability goals while delivering top-notch quality.

Advertisers must love that level of innovation. How do they leverage AET’s displays for campaigns?

Advertisers leveraging AET displays understand that times have changed, and today’s campaigns demand real-time insights to ensure their ads are capturing consumer attention. Our LED displays are not just products but a promise of quality, consistency, and innovation. From seamless installations to ongoing support, we provide a comprehensive service that sets us apart.

With AET, advertisers gain more than just a display; they gain a dedicated partner committed to their success. Our displays integrate real-time analytics and interactive features, ensuring maximum engagement and deepening consumer relationships.

Let’s talk tech—how is AET revolutionising outdoor advertising in India?

AET Displays is at the forefront of revolutionising digital outdoor advertising in India by driving a significant shift from traditional static advertising to dynamic, interactive, and data-driven solutions.

Our transparent LED displays are a prime example of innovation, offering visually captivating mediums for high-traffic areas while maintaining the surroundings’ aesthetic. Additionally, our Quantum series, built on cutting-edge MIP technology, delivers superior image quality and energy efficiency for large-scale installations.

We empower brands with real-time analytics, allowing for campaign optimisation on the go. By integrating interactive features, advertisers can create unforgettable experiences for their audiences. We’re also contributing to smart city projects, ensuring our displays enhance urban connectivity and innovation.

Sustainability seems to be a buzzword across industries. How is AET walking the talk?

At AET Displays, sustainability is at the core of our business strategy. Our LED displays consume up to 20 per cent less energy compared to industry standards, reducing carbon emissions while cutting operational costs for our clients.

Our advanced packaging technologies like MIP and COB ensure safer deliveries while minimising waste. Additionally, our displays are designed for durability, reducing the need for replacements and cutting down on electronic waste. These efforts align our operations with global sustainability standards, ensuring a greener and more sustainable future.

Looking ahead, what does the future hold for India’s DOOH industry and AET Displays?

The future of the Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) industry in India looks extremely promising. The market is projected to double by 2030, driven by advancements in technologies such as AI, IoT, and 5G connectivity. These innovations will enable more personalised, dynamic, and interactive advertising experiences.

As for AET Displays, 2024 was a landmark year with 40 per cent growth in India. In 2025, we plan to expand aggressively into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, launch new product lines with enhanced capabilities, and strengthen our partnerships through initiatives like the AET Spark Program. Our mission is to remain at the forefront of this transformation and help brands captivate audiences like never before.

As AET Displays paves the way with tech-savvy brilliance and sustainability-driven innovation, India’s DOOH market is truly lighting up—literally. The future of outdoor advertising is bright, and it’s undoubtedly LED-powered. So, the next time you walk past an LED display, don’t just admire its shine—wonder if it’s plotting world domination with programmatic ads and AI analytics. Will the old-school billboard ever make a comeback? Doubtful. But as Srivastava cheekily puts it, “In the battle of the billboards, it’s clear—LED always outshines paper. It’s bright, it’s dynamic, and most importantly, it’s the future of how we connect with audiences.”

January 27, 2025
Industry gathers to remember their Bhaskar Da

MUMBAI: Friends, colleagues, and admirers gathered on the evening of 24 January to celebrate the life of Dr Bhaskar Das, fondly known as BD or Bhaskar Da, at a packed remembrance ceremony at the Nehru Centre in Mumbai. The atmosphere resembled a rock concert, as people stood shoulder to shoulder to honour the “rock star” of the media industry, in the words of media veteran Meenakshi Menon.

A striking photograph of BD captured his essence—an effortlessly stylish presence, his T-shirt radiating understated luxury, hair tousled as if by a breeze from a southern French beach, and his insouciance evident in every detail.

The evening highlighted BD’s extraordinary ability to forge deep connections. As his brother Sanjay Das shared, “Bhaskar had an incredible gift for bringing people together.”

Despite being a deeply private individual, BD had an innate knack for shining a spotlight on others, learning about their lives, families, and struggles, all while keeping his own life in the shadows, highlighted Meenakshi.

The venue was emotionally charged – some shared their loss, some shared how Bhaskar Da had helped them unexpectedly and expecting nothing in return. Many attendees shared stories of his thoughtfulness and the genuine care he extended to everyone, regardless of their stature. Bhaskar Da was a people’s person in the truest sense—interested not in what he could gain but in what he could learn from others.

“BD’s ability to make friends and influence people was unmatched,” noted one attendee. “He was a friend to all and an inspiration to many.”

The remembrance ceremony was as vibrant and heartfelt as the life BD lived—an event he would have undoubtedly approved of. As those closest to him bid farewell, they reflected on his enduring wisdom and generosity.

“Farewell, my friend,” wrote Meenakshi. “You will live on in our hearts and through the advice you shared. You will be remembered always.”

Bhaskar Da would have liked it if people celebrated his life, rather than mourn his loss or his passing. He lived a full life, like he used to say: “I’d rather have life in my years, than years in my life.”

While, we would have liked him to have both, he chose the first. We appreciate and respect his choice Bhaskar Da. Thank you for the wonderful legacy of relationships, warmth, and a life well-lived that you have left behind. Cheers!.

January 26, 2025
Hindware ropes in Nirupam Sahay as new CEO for bath and tiles business

MUMBAI: It’s got a new senior executive in the corner office. Bathware brand Hindware Limited has appointed Nirupam Sahay as CEO of its bath and tiles business. Sahay’s extensive leadership experience and strong track record in driving growth will support Hindware’s expansion in sanitaryware, faucets, and tiles.

Nirupam joins Hindware from Dixon Technologies, where he served as president of the lighting solutions business. He has held senior roles at prominent companies such as Philips Lighting, GE Capital, Whirlpool, and Asian Paints. Additionally, he has served on the boards of Rexxam Dixon Electronics and GE Money Financial Services, and is an advisor at the Institute for Advanced Studies in Complex Choices.

Hindware chaIrman & managing director Sandip Somany expressed confidence in Nirupam’s leadership skills, stating, “His deep understanding of the Indian market and focus on innovation will drive our bathware business’s growth.”

Nirupam Sahay shared his enthusiasm, saying, “I am honored to join Hindware, an iconic brand in Indian households. My focus will be on fostering innovation and creating value for all stakeholders.”

Nirupam holds an honors BA in economics from St. Stephen’s College, a master’s in management from NMIMS, and completed the advanced management program at Wharton.

January 22, 2025
Mukesh Garg named managing director for Ramboll India

MUMBAI: Ramboll has announced the appointment of Mukesh Garg as its new managing director for India, effective 1 January 2025. A dynamic leader with 26 years of experience, Mukesh is set to bring his tech-savvy vision and transformational leadership skills to the forefront of Ramboll’s India operations. But wait, there’s more—he’s also juggling this role alongside his current position as senior director, head of technology operations in Ramboll Tech. Talk about multitasking!

Garg is no stranger to Ramboll. Joining the company in February 2020 as IT director, he quickly made his mark by leading the company’s Global IT transformation. By April 2024, he took on the mantle of senior director, technology operations, showcasing his flair for tech and leadership.

But Garg isn’t just a tech guru. With 18 years of senior global leadership experience across companies like Larsen & Toubro Infotech, AstraZeneca, and Flextronics Technologies, he’s an all-rounder. He’s built global capability centres (GCCs), simplified business processes, and run large-scale programs—all with a knack for fostering collaboration. Essentially, he’s the kind of person you’d want steering the ship when navigating the turbulent seas of today’s business world.

Ramboll group chief people officer Lone Tvis couldn’t be more thrilled about the appointment, “I’m delighted that Mukesh has agreed to take on the role as managing director for India in addition to his current role. With his leadership skills, strategic vision, and contributions towards building an organisation fit for the future, I know he is the right person for the job. I’m confident that with his strong international leadership background and diverse business experience, he will contribute to making Ramboll an attractive workplace, a collaborative business, and a true partner for sustainable change for our clients.”

That’s a glowing endorsement if there ever was one. But what does Garg have to say about this exciting new chapter? In his own words, he expressed pride in his journey at Ramboll and a deep commitment to fostering an inclusive, innovative environment, “It has been a pleasure working with great colleagues in Ramboll for the past five years. I’m proud to be working for a foundation-owned, globally integrated company with strong values, and it will be my endeavour to create an enabling and engaging environment where our bright minds can thrive. I look forward to advancing the global vision of becoming an outstanding business and a talent powerhouse of global capabilities.”

Ambitious, isn’t he? But with Garg’s track record, we wouldn’t bet against him pulling it off.

In a world where innovation and sustainability are no longer optional, Garg’s leadership could be the game-changer Ramboll needs.

January 21, 2025
Kellanova’s Sonam Pradhan’s date with the Tata Mumbai Marathon

MUMBAI: We normally see her on stage dressed to the T like a corporate executive presenting or taking part in panel discussions around digital marketing and spends. But there’s another side to Kellanova head media & digital marketing Sonam Pradhan: she loves to run, she’s an avid marathoner.

And boy did she run at the twentieth Tata Mumbai Marathon which finished just a couple of days ago. When she crossed the finishing line, she had covered the full distance of the marathon – the full 42.195 kilometres. Kudos to her as many other media professionals ran only seven kilometers, or 10 kilometres, or the half marathon.

Which is what she had been doing so far and she expressed that on Linkedin:
“Finish the race, Never the run.Completed My First Full Marathon! 42.2 kilometres taught me discipline, resilience, and the power of consistency—lessons I carry into every aspect of life and work.She came. She ran. She conquered.”

We don’t know what her timing was like, but completing the marathon is no easy task and only a few million worldwide have managed to go the distance. For not only does it require physical strength and stamina, but it also calls for a lot of get-go spirit, the never-say-die attitude even if it feels like you are going to. Some say, the thirty fifth kilometre is when the body wants to give up and that’s when you have to draw up on your reserves – even if you have ran out of them – and go on. Once the thirty seventh kilometre is crossed, the legs tend to move forward on their own.

As they did for Sonam. And the following five kilometres were a cinch for her!

More power to this marketing & media professional!

January 21, 2025
Media veteran Yesudas S Pillai and his personal Tata Mumbai Marathon triumph

MUMBAI: You don’t seem to be getting it right, no matter how hard you try, should you just surrender and give up?

Surrender yes, but, don’t give up , is the advice of media veteran Yesudas Pillai.

Yesu completed the Tata Mumbai Marathon half marathon with a time of 2:20 : 36 seconds on the morning of 19 January. In the process, he shaved 10-20 minutes off what he had managed to clock over the past couple of seasons. His determination and hard work paid off. This milestone victory is the culmination of months of intense training and dedication for Yesu.

After struggling with his fitness last season, averaging times between 2 hours 30 minutes and 2 hours 40 minutes he vowed to rebuild and push himself to new heights. The result is a testament to his unwavering commitment to fitness and his ability to overcome adversity.(His previous personal best is 2:02 minutes, however).

“I’m overjoyed and humbled by my achievement,” Pillai said. “It’s not just about the time; it’s about the journey, the struggles, and the triumphs. I believe that setbacks are an opportunity for growth, and this experience has taught me to stay focused and push through difficulties. “

“It’s hard to put into words how it feels to see the results of sheer determination and hard work. This is more than just about a marathon; it’s a reminder that setbacks aren’t the end—they’re just a setup for comebacks,” he added. “To anyone struggling in their own race, remember: progress is progress, no matter how small. Keep pushing, keep believing, and trust the process. The finish line feels that much sweeter when you’ve earned it.”

Yesu’s impressive feat showcases his remarkable resilience and perseverance. His journey to run long distance is a true inspiration to anyone striving to achieve their goals.

As a successful entrepreneur, Yesu has built a reputation for driving innovation and excellence in the business world. His company, Y&A Transformation, helps enterprises connect with their customers by simplifying complex practices and leveraging cognitive and intuitive approaches.

In addition to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Yesu is an avid cyclist and marathon runner, with a proven track record of 28 years in business building. He has founded and led successful ventures like Triggerbridge and has been involved in various business initiatives, including the launch of Channel Factory, a YouTube measurement partner certified by Google.

Yesu’s achievements are a testament to his boundless energy, dedication, and innovative spirit. His remarkable accomplishment in the Tata Mumbai Marathon serves as a reminder that, with determination and hard work, anything is possible.

January 19, 2025
Zahid Gawandi joins hBits: Will the real estate game change forever?

MUMBAI: hBits, India’s leading platform for investing in commercial real estate, has just made a big power move by appointing Zahid Gawandi as its director – brand & marketing.

With over 20 years of marketing wizardry under his belt, Gawandi is all set to redefine hBits’ brand strategy and spearhead its market expansion. This appointment comes hot on the heels of the company’s impressive Rs 40 crore fundraise—talk about momentum!

Gawandi isn’t just another marketing pro. He’s a brand guru with a track record that can rival a blockbuster movie. From launching Reliance Money to leading the rebranding of SBI Securities Ltd, Gawandi has done it all. He’s also dabbled in industries ranging from Fintech to FMCG to Automobiles.

But wait, there’s more. Gawandi is no stranger to global markets, thanks to his time with advertising giants like Dentsu and Hakuhodo. Need more reasons to trust him? He’s a sought-after speaker, a business school faculty member, and even a jury member for prestigious marketing awards. Oh, and did we mention he’s also a marathon runner? Clearly, this man doesn’t know how to slow down.

hBits is betting big on Gawandi’s knack for understanding consumer insights and his flair for crafting integrated marketing strategies. According to hBits founder & CEO Shiv Parekh, “With our recent Rs 40 crore fundraise, hBits is poised for exponential growth. Zahid’s strategic vision and expertise in marketing and brand building will be instrumental in positioning hBits as the preferred Proptech platform for fractional ownership of premium commercial real estate.”

Gawandi plans to hit the ground running (literally, if his marathon habits are any indication). He will focus on:

● Building integrated marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility.

● Leveraging cutting-edge digital campaigns to attract clients.

● Strengthening investor engagement through powerful product narratives.

According to hBits co-founder Samir Bhandari, “Zahid’s extensive experience in BFSI, his grasp of global marketing dynamics, and his ability to inspire teams make him an invaluable asset to hBits. His marketing acumen will undoubtedly propel us toward even greater success.”

If marketing were a race, Gawandi would already be at the finish line—probably wearing a medal. With him on board, hBits is ready to soar to new heights. Will he deliver a marketing masterstroke?

January 16, 2025
In Loving Memory of Bhaskar Das

MUMBAI: The media world mourns the loss of Bhaskar Das, or BD as he was known, a beloved and influential media professional, who passed away this morning at Breach Candy Hospital after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was gracefully advancing through his 72nd year. Despite the doctors’ grim prognosis and the family’s emotional struggle over the past weeks, Bhaskar’s indomitable spirit remained a source of inspiration for many until his final moments.

BD’s impressive career spanned over four decades, beginning as a management trainee in 1980 and culminating in senior leadership roles in some of the industry’s most prestigious organizations. His journey included transformative years at Bennett Coleman and Company Ltd (BCCL), where he played a pivotal role in propelling the company into a powerhouse, alongside his esteemed boss, mentor, and friend, Pradeep Guha, who predeceased him in 2021.

BD’s professional accolades are a testament to his extraordinary talent and dedication. His leadership as group CEO at Zee Media and later as group president & chief strategy officer at Republic TV left an indelible mark on the media landscape. He was known for spearheading dramatic revenue growth and transforming legacy companies into modern success stories. During his tenure at BCCL, he was responsible for an astounding escalation in advertising revenue from Rs 1,560 crore to Rs 4,200 crore, underscoring his unwavering commitment to excellence in media management.

Beyond his impressive resume, Bhaskar was a passionate mentor and educator, dedicating considerable time to the development of future leaders in marketing and media. He served as a professor at various esteemed institutions, including Mica and SPJIMR, imparting knowledge and inspiring students to think critically about the evolving landscape of media and marketing. His profound insight and ability to provoke thought earned him recognition as a sought-after speaker at industry forums and prestigious business schools worldwide.

Bhaskar’s warmth, charm, and infectious smile endeared him to everyone who had the privilege to know him. His profound wisdom and unique perspective on leadership—believing firmly in delivering outcomes rather than mere outputs—left a lasting influence on his teams and associates. Colleagues have described him as an “insight provocateur” and a loyal friend, someone who nurtured the potential in others while remaining a lifelong learner himself.

In the weeks leading to his passing, Bhaskar’s independent film maker wife Shomshuklla Das kept close friends informed of his health struggles, and his resilience during this difficult time highlighted the strength of his character. While his battle with cancer was immense, his hope and confidence in finding a way through remained a guiding light for family and friends.

Bhaskarda – as those who were close to him called him – had one thing to say among friends: “I still feel like the petrol of my life is not yet over. My mind does not know my age. Should I add years to my life or life to my years? I am very clear: I’d rather add life to my years.”

Bhaskarda, you lived your life well in a wholesome manner. Many would love to leave behind a legacy of innovation, mentorship, and an unwavering zest for life like you did. Your contributions to the media industry will be remembered, as will your remarkable ability to connect with those around you.

Rest in peace, Bhaskarda. You will be profoundly missed, and your smile and spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved you.

You leave behind a legacy in the number of professionals who have thanked you on numerous occasions for guiding them through their careers.

(Pictures courtesy: Bhaskar Das’ Instagram)

January 15, 2025